12 Things You Probably Don't Know About Texas State Fair

Discover 12 fascinating facts about the Texas State Fair, including its history, famous visitors, and record-breaking attendance.

The Texas State Fair is renowned across the country for its grandeur and excitement. From thrilling fair rides to mouthwatering fried food, lively concerts, livestock shows, and rodeo events, this 24-day extravaganza has it all. Even if you've done your research before attending the fair, there are still plenty of fascinating facts and hidden details that contribute to the Lone Star magic.

Let's dive into 12 things you might not know about the Texas State Fair.

The inaugural Texas State Fair took place in Dallas in 1886, making this year its 136th anniversary. However, due to the unfortunate cancellation in 2020, the fair is now celebrating its 136th year in 2021.

Interestingly, when organizers were deciding on the location for the fairgrounds, they encountered a significant divide. In fact, one director went as far as securing a charter for a completely different event called the Texas State Fair & Exposition. This event was even scheduled to open a day before the Dallas State Fair. However, the following year, the two events merged, creating the unified Texas State Fair we know today.

In 1988, the fair expanded from 17 days to an impressive 24 days, officially earning the title of the longest-running state fair in the entire country. And to this day, it still holds that distinction.

The fairgrounds are not only home to the Texas State Fair but also house the iconic Cotton Bowl Stadium. During the 24-day run of the fair, you can catch two thrilling rivalry football games – the State Fair Classic and the Red River Rivalry. Plus, if you purchase a ticket to either game, you'll also receive a one-day admission to the fair, offering double the excitement.

Back in 1956, the king of rock 'n roll himself, Elvis Presley, graced the stage at the Cotton Bowl during the 71st Texas State Fair, leaving an indelible mark on the fair's history.

The Texas State Fair has also had its fair share of notable visitors. President William Howard Taft visited the fair in 1909, and Woodrow Wilson delivered a speech there in 1911. Vice President Richard Nixon made an appearance in the 1950s. While both George H. W. Bush and George W. Bush, who hail from Texas, have attended the fair, they did so before becoming elected Presidents.

In recognition of its significance, Fair Park, where the Texas State Fair is held, was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986, cementing its place in history.

One of the most beloved figures at the fair is Big Tex, the larger-than-life mascot who stands over 50 feet tall. With his impressive stature, Big Tex welcomes fairgoers with his 95-gallon cowboy hat and size 96 Lucchese-inspired boots, perfectly embodying the spirit of Texas.

The attendance at the Texas State Fair has consistently surpassed 2 million visitors for many years. In 2021, approximately 2.2 million people flocked to the fair, and in 2022, that number reached around 2.5 million, further solidifying its status as the largest state fair in the country.

When it comes to food, the fair has its own iconic delicacy – Fletcher's Original Corny Dogs. These delectable treats made their debut at the Texas State Fair in 1942, and since then, over 500,000 corny dogs are sold each year during the fair's 24-day run. While they have gained immense popularity, it's worth noting that their claim as the birthplace of the corndog is disputed, as similar sausage pastries were rumored to exist in the Texas-German belt around the same time.

Every year, the Texas State Fair hosts the Big Tex Choice Awards, where certain fair foods are named winners before the fair even begins. This means that visitors can taste these award-winning creations for themselves. From unique and creative dishes to the classic fried fair foods, the fair offers a wide range of culinary delights. Additionally, you can explore the list of finalists to discover other intriguing eats that cater to your preferences.

With its rich history, impressive scale, and mouthwatering food, the Texas State Fair continues to captivate audiences year after year. Whether you're a Texan or from any other corner of the world, this iconic event is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the Lone Star State's magic. So, mark your calendars and get ready to immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Texas State Fair.